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How to Get a Social Worker License in Pennsylvania

Social Worker license requirements in Pennsylvania — experience, exams, fees, reciprocity, and salary data from State Board of Social Work.

Experience
— months
Exam Fee
$260
Passing Score
70%
Avg Salary
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Requirements

01
Social Worker — Help individuals and families cope with problems, access resources, and navigate social services systems.
Minimum Age18 years old
EducationBachelor's (BSW) or Master's (MSW) degree in social work + supervised clinical hours for LCSW
Experience DetailsBachelor's (BSW) or Master's (MSW) degree in social work + supervised clinical hours for LCSW

Exam Details

02
Exam NamePennsylvania ASWB Licensing Exam (Bachelors, Masters, or Clinical level)
Passing Score70%
Code EditionASWB Licensing Exam (Bachelors, Masters, or Clinical level)
Application Fee$260

Preparing for the Pennsylvania Social Worker Exam?

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How to Apply

03
1
Register with the state
Register with State Board of Social Work before beginning work.
2
Accumulate required experience
Complete — months of supervised work experience.
3
Apply for the exam
Submit your application and $260 fee through the state portal.
4
Pass the exam
questions, 70% to pass.
5
Receive your license
After passing, your license will be issued. Renew every 2 years.

Fees & Renewal

04
FeeAmount
Exam Application$260
License Renewal$260 every 2 years
Continuing Education30 hours

Salary Data

06

Social Workers in Pennsylvania earn less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

25th Percentile
Median
$57,212
75th Percentile
Mean (average)— / year
Entry level (10th pct)
Top earners (90th pct)
Total employed— in Pennsylvania
National average$58,380

Related

Data last verified April 2026. Requirements may change — always verify with the State Board of Social Work.